Man Jailed for Attempted Murder on London Tube Platform
Arthur Hawrylewicz, of Avondale Gardens, Cardiff, has been sentenced to 10 years behind bars after pleading guilty to attempted murder at Inner London Crown Court on 6 March.
Chilling Attack at Busy Tube Station
The horrifying incident happened on Monday 29 August, around 1.30pm, at a packed Hammersmith and City line platform. The victim, a 22-year-old woman, was waiting with friends to catch a train to Notting Hill Carnival.
Both Hawrylewicz and the woman were standing near the edge as they waited. He tried to speak to her, but noticing he appeared drunk, she told him to leave her alone.
Brave Friends Stop Man Throwing Woman Under Train
As the train pulled in, Hawrylewicz suddenly grabbed the woman from behind and lifted her off the ground. He then tried to throw them both under the oncoming train.
Thanks to the quick reactions of two friends, the victim was pulled to safety. Hawrylewicz then put his head in front of the train and was knocked unconscious.
Police Arrest and Shocking Interview
Officers arrived swiftly. Hawrylewicz was arrested and taken to hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries before being interviewed. He admitted drinking three beers and a third of a vodka bottle and claimed he had intended to harm himself. He did not recall the attack.
Detective Sergeant Mike Blakeburn said: “This was a completely unprovoked and incredibly disturbing attack which will have been beyond terrifying for the victim – a young woman on her way to enjoy Notting Hill Carnival with friends. Had it not been for their brave actions, we could have been dealing with a murder investigation.”
“Hawrylewicz has never explained why he did it and claims no memory of the incident. Sadly, the victim will live with this trauma forever. Thankfully, justice is served with a significant sentence giving him time to consider his senseless violence.”
“Although shocking, incidents like this are extremely rare on the railway. British Transport Police were on site within minutes to quickly arrest Hawrylewicz and keep the public safe.”
